Low Vision Awareness Month
February is Low Vision Awareness Month. During this month, let's emphasize the importance of medical education to raise awareness about common diagnoses. Low vision is a prevalent ocular impairment that cannot be fully corrected by traditional eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. In this blog, we will discuss distinct types of low vision conditions, how low vision develops, medical symptoms, and how to manage treatment options.
What is Low Vision Impairment?
Low vision is a broad term encompassing various medical visual ailments, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, eye trauma, cancer, amblyopia, and other eye conditions causing vision impairment. While some conditions stem from age or genetic factors, others have unknown causes. Without awareness of signs, symptoms, and regular ocular checkups, individuals are at higher risk of developing vision impairments.
Common Causes of Low Vision:
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD):
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss, typically affecting older individuals. It results from genetic factors and/or environmental exposure to sunlight, ultraviolet rays, and certain drugs. AMD affects the macula, a critical area near the center of the retina, that is responsible for central vision needed for tasks like reading and driving. There are two main types:
Dry AMD:
This is the most common form, accounting for 90% of cases. It occurs when light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down, leading to blurred vision. Dry AMD progresses slowly, causing gradual vision loss. Severe dry AMD, known as atrophic or geographic atrophy, involves cell death in the macula, leading to extensive retina cell loss.
Wet AMD:
Less common but more severe, Wet AMD can cause rapid and severe vision loss if not promptly treated. It occurs when abnormal, leaky blood vessels grow beneath the retina, leading to fluid accumulation and scarring. This can cause irreversible distortions and spots in the field of vision. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and zinc, along with laser surgery or medication, can help manage AMD.
Cataracts:
Cataracts occur when the clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, interfering with light transmission. Various factors contribute to their formation; infection, sunlight exposure, aging, metabolic abnormalities, or injuries. Cataract surgery, an out-patient procedure, replaces the natural lens to restore vision and may include preventative measures against postoperative glaucoma.
Glaucoma:
To find more information regarding glaucoma, please read our last blog post as it goes in depth about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
https://www.wecarehome.health/blog-1-1/glaucoma-awareness-month
You Might Have Low Vision if You Struggle With:
Having difficulty seeing despite being in a well-lit environment.
Having difficulty serving food/poring drinks.
Having difficulty walking on uneven/bumpy surfaces.
Difficulty reading – taking more time to do so.
Lack of depth perception – overreaching or under reaching for objects.
Difficulty driving - clearly seeing road signs.
Bumping into objects frequently.
Precautions and Preventative Measures:
If you find yourself struggling with any of these key identifiers, please contact your nearest optometrist for a formal diagnosis and potential medication or surgery to maintain clear and healthy eyesight. Since low vision is a prevalent medical condition, there are numerous preventative measures and vision tools available for use in the comfort of your own home or to assist you or your loved ones.
Electronic reading systems.
Tinted eye ware.
Audio products (clocks, radios, navigation...).
Screen magnification.
Large button household items (Phones, calculators, keyboards...).
Why Awareness Matters:
One in six adults over the age of 45 experiences low vision. Awareness and education are essential for individuals with or without low vision to support our surrounding communities. As we celebrate Low Vision Awareness Month, let's recognize the resilience and strength of those around us and offer support and care. Remember, a healthy collective leads to a happier community!
For additional information about Low Vision Awareness Month, you can visit these sites:
https://lighthouseguild.org/low-vision-awareness-month/
https://preventblindness.org/2023-low-vision-amd-awareness/
https://www.cwwilliams.org/february-is-low-vision-awareness-month-what-does-this-mean/
